WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Armed Services Committee, is traveling to Iraq and other nations in the Middle East this week to get a firsthand look at security and political developments in the region and their impact on counter-terrorism operations and America’s national security.

During the trip, Senator Reed will get a closer look at some of the operational challenges for retaking Mosul, securing Raqqa, defeating the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), and disrupting and dismantling terrorist infrastructure.  Reed is also seeking a better understating of the diplomatic and security requirements necessary to provide lasting solutions in this theater.

Reed is also scheduled to meet with U.S. troops from Rhode Island who are currently serving overseas.

This is Senator Reed’s 20th trip to Iraq since 2003.

WHO: U.S. Senator Jack Reed

WHAT: Trip to Iraq and the Middle East to focus on counter-terrorism and defeating ISIS

WHEN: Senator Reed departed for the region over the Memorial Day weekend and will return later in the week.